We often see food imports and exports through the narrow lens of the needs and wants of the American people but how do our own food policies affect international trade when we are providing food for the international market? How do the differences in what is considered safe in the US versus other places impact recipients of trade? In this featured article, Taiwan is dealing with that exact question as they recently began accepting pork from the US. Here, pork is commonly treated with a chemical called ractopamine. The additive is banned in more than 150 countries around the world, including Taiwan. For this reason, the people of Taiwan are protesting the acceptance of US pork. America is one of Taiwan’s most significant allies and Taiwan hopes to join the trans-Pacific trade deal known as Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership. Accepting pork from the US was a step in that direction but at what cost? Shops and restaurants in Taiwan are currently showcasing a label or sign indicating that they only use Taiwanese pork in their products for the benefit of consumers but is this enough? Pork holds a very significant role in Taiwanese culture and their usual diet. If the US continues to use this chemical, and Taiwan votes to reverse the acceptance of pork from the US as a result, what becomes of that trade relationship?
